Stranger Things

:

Season 2
  • Network: Netflix
  • Series Premiere Date: Jul 15, 2016
Season #: 5, 4.5, 4, 3, 2, 1
User Score
8.1

Universal acclaim- based on 892 Ratings

User score distribution:
  1. Positive: 758 out of 892
  2. Mixed: 63 out of 892
  3. Negative: 71 out of 892

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  1. eagleeyeviking
    Nov 28, 2017
    8
    "Stranger Things 2” delivers the winning combination of darkness, horror, humour, strong acting, and nostalgia expected from the series, although the plot occasionally meanders to familiar places.
  2. mikeasmith1234
    Oct 28, 2017
    2
    nothing really interesting about this season. felt very forced. eleven suddenly trains like a part x man slash jedi but is barely in the series, her whole story is irrelevant until the end. the rest is all very straightforward. 2/10 will not watch again
  3. trp2
    Oct 30, 2017
    6
    Starts strong but drops off about half way through. Story is too large and cumbersome, not much character development and not much pay off either. Important characters are tossed aside with weak stories that limp through the series. New characters are brought in, seem interesting but just fizzle out into a silly plot line. Overall it's a good series but they tried to tell far too much of aStarts strong but drops off about half way through. Story is too large and cumbersome, not much character development and not much pay off either. Important characters are tossed aside with weak stories that limp through the series. New characters are brought in, seem interesting but just fizzle out into a silly plot line. Overall it's a good series but they tried to tell far too much of a story in this season and ended up using a lot of cliches.… Expand
  4. strangel0ve
    Nov 3, 2017
    5
    It somehow lacks a character, focus, backbone, I don't know what it is, but season one had it and I can only rate it and like percieve it in relation to it. It feels like a kids show now whereas season one was a story, atmosphere, coherence. This seems to be a bit all over the place, not nearly as singular and interesting, still a lot of good things about it, I certainly appreciated nodsIt somehow lacks a character, focus, backbone, I don't know what it is, but season one had it and I can only rate it and like percieve it in relation to it. It feels like a kids show now whereas season one was a story, atmosphere, coherence. This seems to be a bit all over the place, not nearly as singular and interesting, still a lot of good things about it, I certainly appreciated nods to Aliens and Jurrasic Park (and a lot of other stuff i bet) but as far as its own thing this season didn't do it for me.… Expand
  5. downtownee
    May 18, 2018
    0
    First season was awesome. And it should have been the only season. Season 2 Is like Matrix 4, if the now-sisters continued that downward slope into cashing out on their franchise. The whole season 2 could have been done in the first 15 minutes of one episode of a spin-off. And even that shouldn't have been. If you are a tasteful fan of classic sci-fi's, and haven't seen the second season,First season was awesome. And it should have been the only season. Season 2 Is like Matrix 4, if the now-sisters continued that downward slope into cashing out on their franchise. The whole season 2 could have been done in the first 15 minutes of one episode of a spin-off. And even that shouldn't have been. If you are a tasteful fan of classic sci-fi's, and haven't seen the second season, you may want to skip this season all together. I cannot not see this failure now.… Expand
  6. MacheteDontText
    Nov 12, 2017
    6
    Sadly season 2 has almost none of the first one's charm and mistery. The cast is still great but everything else is just mediocre, with a few unneccesary characters and a couple of cringeworthy moments. Overall its disappointing, but watchable, season 1 was great, should ve leaved it the **** alone.
  7. Tony1984
    Aug 1, 2018
    6
    Season 1 was a Spielberg/King homage which wasn't original in the slightest but very entertaining and very addictive nonetheless. Season 2 is a regurgitation on 1 just weaker on whole. Season 1 had its flaws that could be forgiven on its debut. 2 has the same flaws but worse. Weak plot lines, poor writing, the obligatory PC and general silliness grate the second time around. StrangerSeason 1 was a Spielberg/King homage which wasn't original in the slightest but very entertaining and very addictive nonetheless. Season 2 is a regurgitation on 1 just weaker on whole. Season 1 had its flaws that could be forgiven on its debut. 2 has the same flaws but worse. Weak plot lines, poor writing, the obligatory PC and general silliness grate the second time around. Stranger Things is a now corporate. KFC and Coke product placements, even though KFC wasn't even around in 1984. Season 3 will be the death knell .… Expand
  8. Honestgame
    May 21, 2018
    0
    Season 2 was an absolute disappointment, to say the least. After such an amazing first season, I had nothing but high hopes for the future of this franchise. Unfortunately, season ones shine quickly crumbled while watching season 2. It took me 2 months to finally finish it because it was so bad. Sad.
  9. Archimdus
    Sep 18, 2018
    2
    Takes everything that was awesome in the first season and removes it. Decides to base the entire season on the old game "dig dug" where creatures have created an underground hive that it takes Hopper way too long to figure it out. Joyce makes her entire house into an arts and crafts project again. Mike has basically checked out. Will is possessed by a lame alien who's picky aboutTakes everything that was awesome in the first season and removes it. Decides to base the entire season on the old game "dig dug" where creatures have created an underground hive that it takes Hopper way too long to figure it out. Joyce makes her entire house into an arts and crafts project again. Mike has basically checked out. Will is possessed by a lame alien who's picky about temperature and likes to sleep a lot. Eleven is non-existent until she decides to go on a weird little angst vacation and joins a group of psychotic murders (think villains from classic Ninja Turtles but super lame) for a few days before finally returning to mike (in the last episode of the season) looking like an awkward, tiny hooker. Mike doesn't seem to mind. Eleven screams a lot and waves her hands around and saves the town again. Mike and Eleven go to a school dance. She kisses him in the most obligatory and apathetic way possible. The end.… Expand
  10. brockcheese
    Jul 18, 2019
    8
    This season finds very inventive ways to keep the plot moving forward while retaining what made the first season so good.
  11. LaSh4wn328
    Nov 13, 2017
    0
    Just terrible. After the great season 1 this show did not need another season, it should have been a miniseries! Now they are just redoing everything they already did: Will is attacked by a supernatural monster, his mom is hysterical, the nerds try to find out what's happening, Hopper is cynical and reckless, and Eleven uses her supernatural powers to help. IT'S ALL JUST THE EXACT SAME ASJust terrible. After the great season 1 this show did not need another season, it should have been a miniseries! Now they are just redoing everything they already did: Will is attacked by a supernatural monster, his mom is hysterical, the nerds try to find out what's happening, Hopper is cynical and reckless, and Eleven uses her supernatural powers to help. IT'S ALL JUST THE EXACT SAME AS THE FIRST SEASON!

    I know for many people these days that's what makes them comfortable, just being spoon-fed the exact same thing over and over and over again (look at how many people went to see Star Wars 7 even though it was just a remake of ANH), but for people who like shows to break new creative ground and take risks this was a massive disappointment. Now they are going to keep milking this show until it becomes so bad even the fans can't deny it. A real shame, because the first season was good, but the second season stinks!    … Expand
  12. Lookingforheart
    Mar 14, 2018
    3
    I truly enjoyed the first season of the show. In spite of it being so blatantly derivative, it was very well made, very well acted, and very heartfelt and entertaining. It had genuinely rousing moments, good pacing, and a great sense of tension. The sum was larger than its parts.

    The new season was a disappointment to say the least. There is a fine line between inspiration and an honest    I truly enjoyed the first season of the show. In spite of it being so blatantly derivative, it was very well made, very well acted, and very heartfelt and entertaining. It had genuinely rousing moments, good pacing, and a great sense of tension. The sum was larger than its parts.

    The new season was a disappointment to say the least. There is a fine line between inspiration and an honest to goodness ripoff, and I struggled to find a single original idea here: the show's creators sticky fingers lift ideas ranging all the way from Akira, to the Exorcist, to Alien, to H.P. Lovecraft, to Star Wars, to every John Hughes movie ever made, to E.T. again, and it isn't a passing nod of admiration, no, we are talking ideas and shots plucked straight out of other titles. It's so thoroughly creatively bankrupt, anyone with any degree of familiarity of genre films or series of the past 40 years would be hard pressed not to scoff or roll their eyes at some point. Not good, not good at all.

    The series relied on nostalgia very heavily in the first installment, and that is doubled down on here. In the original it was obvious, but it was second to some very good story telling, whereas here, it seems to be the central focus. This is made more awkward by the fact that some of the anachronisms are incorrect: Reese's pieces didn't have chocolate in them, Kentucky Fried Chicken wasn't called 'KFC' in the 80s (I suspect that last one was due to product endorsement issues), among many others. Nitpicking, perhaps, but it tarnishes the sense of immersion, all the same.

    Some of this could be perhaps be forgivable in service of a great story, but the overall plot is also wooden, predictable, and in places, straight up boring. There's an episode in the middle that is a complete throw away (and yet another opportunity to be 'inspired' by Akira), and when we finally do get back to the main event, it is done in such a trite fashion as to be laughable. You won't have to guess what's about to happen in the slightest. From there events unfold in a series of episodes that are films and shows you have probably already seen, and done better, elsewhere.

    The new characters that are added serve no purpose other than to fill up space and disrupt the terrific ensemble from the first series. Were they left out of the script entirely it would not have changed a thing or even been noticeable, but for the opportunity they provided for still more nostalgia signaling.

    All in all, season 2 is watchable for the most part, and the performances are still great, that can't be overstated. You will love the kids as much as ever. The ending is supremely sweet, but getting there is an exercise in the worst kind of lazy writing and production, designed specifically to play on nostalgia and its related emotions that you may or may not even possess in lieu of quality or depth or anything resembling fresh, creative ideas. The setup for season 3 is impossibly lame, and if the mediocrity of episode 7 was an indication of where they are headed, count me out.

    This is 21st century film-making in every worst possible sense of the notion with some terrific moments thrown in, seemingly almost by accident or as an after thought. Its a shame, and indicative of Netflix in general as time goes by - I can't decide if their shows are indeed penned by algorithms or just people that have been trained to write like them. One point for the cast, one point for the production values, and one for the truly sweet ending.    … Expand
  13. Goosejuice33
    Oct 28, 2017
    7
    I really wanted to like this as much as the original but it didn't quite do it for me. The story seemed to lack the same sense of mystery and urgency. Maybe it's partly just due to the fact that we already know the backstory, the government lab, the upside down, the freaky experiments, demogorgon etc. so there's less of a sense of wonder, I'm not really sure. Watching the first season itI really wanted to like this as much as the original but it didn't quite do it for me. The story seemed to lack the same sense of mystery and urgency. Maybe it's partly just due to the fact that we already know the backstory, the government lab, the upside down, the freaky experiments, demogorgon etc. so there's less of a sense of wonder, I'm not really sure. Watching the first season it felt there was a really sense of mystery and horror about the creature with no face lurking around Hawkins. Not so this season.

    The story seemed to meander a lot. The whole Eleven side plot thing just felt unnecessary. A bunch of cliche punk rebels living in a warehouse fighting baddies? Felt kinda B grade with the way it was executed. They didn't really seem to sell the idea that Hawkins/the world was in danger from this shadow monster thing either. The first season had the life and death of Will and Barb at stake, but this season they were like "Oh the world is going to end btw look here's some dead trees." Didn't really feel like much was at stake even though they wanted me to feel as though there was.

    Also the character of Max's brother felt pretty one-dimensional considering how much screen time he got. The only real semblance of depth he was given was in a brief scene with his dad intimidating him. I felt like they should have devoted more time to Max and her brother's home life and backstory rather than some of Eleven's stuff.

    I'm only being this critical because I loved the first season.    … Expand
  14. adventure2u
    Oct 29, 2017
    6
    This review contains spoilers, click expand to view. Characters make or break a TV show. When a show becomes popular due to character dynamics and fulfilled character arcs all done in eight episodes, it's expected that it would be a hard point to leap off of to continue the series. Stranger Things 2 confronts this problem, and instead creating a new goal and character arcs, they focus on fixing problems from the previous season. This is the bad kind of sequel, where instead of using the platform to explore new territory, they make the choice to the wallow in the first season.

    *Plot*
    The new plot introduced feels contrived, Instead of fighting a creature in a world it shouldn't be in, now they are fighting 'darkness'^tm. The story suffers from not having a clear goal, instead of fighting one out of place monster and finding Will, they are now fighting a lot of monsters and are trying to find Will figuratively.

    *Main characters*
    Every characters story arcs seem to have repeated, it's as if the characters haven't learnt anything from their past (season 1) Will is the victim once again, Joyce is grieving and fighting for her son, Steve is having relationship issues with Nancy, so on and so on.
    They have their moments but they seem to come to the same conclusion as season one.

    *New characters*
    Bob and Kali, both introduced in the season. They seem to be in a character state similar to the fairy godmothers from cinderella; they exist to help the other characters. Bob appears only to comfort and fix electronics, and Kali's role seems to be to show Eleven how to use her powers and distract her from the plot. These characters I feel have been brought in unfairly, they don't grow as a person through the story, they don't change. Which bring us to Max and dart (the baby monster) both characters were introduced the same way (the main characters were interested to them, then they feel sorry for them, then there are reasons the main characters can't interact with them, then they become friends again.) It's contrived and they don't feel like real characters, which to be fair is more important for Max. These characters feel like a loss of potential, more than anything else.

    *Overall*
    The season may be a rehash, but its still worth it watch. This season seems like a step to get plot points out of the way before actually making a new story. A Lot of questions were answered but only to make place for new ones. I'm excited to see where they take it.    … Expand
  15. jeffciv
    Nov 27, 2017
    0
    Just horrid. Season 1 was pretty decent. Season 2 is a huge letdown, acting is weak, writing is awful, production is just awful. RIP, don't make a season 3.
  16. PrettyGood
    Nov 7, 2017
    7
    A recycled version of the first season, but still very enjoyable. Entertaining plot, though it feels like something is missing. Improved character development on certain characters. Decent new additions, but they feel unnecessary. The standout of the second season is Noah Schnapp, joined by a group of actors who work well together.
  17. MahbubAli92
    Nov 13, 2017
    0
    It really sucks that so many TV shows with a strong idea for a single season (see also: Mr Robot, Bloodline, Westworld) have to keep getting milked and milked for more episodes even though it's obvious the story has nowhere else to go. Season 1 was a fun supernatural thriller with a great throwback 80's setting, but it was also a complete self-contained story that really, really, REALLYIt really sucks that so many TV shows with a strong idea for a single season (see also: Mr Robot, Bloodline, Westworld) have to keep getting milked and milked for more episodes even though it's obvious the story has nowhere else to go. Season 1 was a fun supernatural thriller with a great throwback 80's setting, but it was also a complete self-contained story that really, really, REALLY did not need a sequel. Yet here we are.

    As usual with these unnecessary followup seasons, the characters either 1) spin their wheels going nowhere, 2) rehash the same character arcs they already had, or 3) get tangled up in pointless melodrama that has nothing to do with the main plot threads. You can set your watch by this pattern these days. Boy I sure can't wait for Season 7 when Joyce once again turns her house upside down to map out the latest supernatural horror attacking her son, and Nancy is still dithering around in her love triangle, and the geeky kids are still having petty arguments over their raging hormones, and Hopper foolishly charges into supernatural danger with no plan and no backup.

    I have to give special mention to the grotesquely awful episode with the vomit-worth Indian chick and her oh-so-cliche crew of Hollywood-diverse henchmen, where they try to turn this show into another Heroes ripoff. That was one of the worst TV episodes I've ever seen, and strongly hints and just how much worse this series is gonna get going forward. I was honestly rooting for the cops to air them all out at the end, but no, naturally they all escape with yet another implausible deus ex machina.

    Meanwhile the red-headed girl only exists to cause melodrama (watch the interview where the actress talks about how they forced her to do an interracial kiss on camera even though she really didn't want to, it'll make you want to strangle Shawn Levy. He seems like another Weinstein in the making with his love of humiliating actresses over this stuff), and her brother is the most one-dimensional cardboard villain I've seen this year.

    I really, really wish they would've quit while they were ahead. It looks like this is going set a new speed record for a series going from fresh and fun and new to being just another cynical Hollywood cash-in that overstays its welcome.    … Expand
  18. romanovich1
    Oct 27, 2017
    4
    Season 1 was a tightly-wound pleasant surprise. Season 2 is an over-wrought, convoluted mess. Some of the elegantly ambivalent loose ends from Season 1 would've been better left untouched. Add to that tons of subplots for seemingly every one of the cast of characters, and this season wears out its welcome fairly fast. Less would have been more. Not hopeful for a Season 3.
  19. Kamarr
    Oct 30, 2017
    7
    I loved everything about this but they should have had better character development for the new member and her douche brother. Like they could have so easily done that but had to make the whole season 9eps like come on. Let me guess season 3 will be 6eps? I understand Netflix is in a huge DEBT atm but you'd think they would have at least did some stronger character development for her..
  20. GuapoGrande
    Nov 13, 2017
    0
    I will admit I had some trepidation when I first heard they were making another season of Stranger Things, and this is exactly why: it doesn't make sense that this same town keeps getting attacked over and over by horrors from beyond, plus now all the mystery of the first season is drained away and it is nearly impossible to create believable drama for the characters that can compare withI will admit I had some trepidation when I first heard they were making another season of Stranger Things, and this is exactly why: it doesn't make sense that this same town keeps getting attacked over and over by horrors from beyond, plus now all the mystery of the first season is drained away and it is nearly impossible to create believable drama for the characters that can compare with the original story. Where will they go next? "Well gang it's a new year, I wonder what new Upside Down Monster will attack us this time? Will I hope your mom paid her Monster Possession insurance because it's a new school year and you know what that means!"

    Also: episode 7 was THE WORST. I can't believe they tried to ripoff all the other superhero shows on TV like that, plus all the gang members (especially the leader) were totally ridiculous and not believable. I was amazed they tried to do that, and naturally failed so badly.    … Expand
  21. GamerJones
    Nov 5, 2017
    1
    This is one of the most overrated Shows in recent tv-history. I can accept it as an mediocre, entertaining homage to the oldschool "Scary Movies" and tv-shows of the 80-90's. Its a kind of hybrid between movies like Carpenters The Thing (the monsters and score ring clear here), Spielbergs E.T., and Stephen Kings IT (the kiddie-cast). Also with undertones of The X-Files, Twin Peaks,This is one of the most overrated Shows in recent tv-history. I can accept it as an mediocre, entertaining homage to the oldschool "Scary Movies" and tv-shows of the 80-90's. Its a kind of hybrid between movies like Carpenters The Thing (the monsters and score ring clear here), Spielbergs E.T., and Stephen Kings IT (the kiddie-cast). Also with undertones of The X-Files, Twin Peaks, Goosebumps etc. This is why i find the show so unoriginal - we've all seen these plots before, but better.

    Thats the next thing, the acting. The kids are so bad! At first this might be attributed to bad writing, but the kids jus seem like genuinly bad actors, all of them. This, combined witht the poor writing, makes the characters extreemely unlikeable. With the exception of the semi-retarded super-nerd, Justin perhaps, none of these characters came across as likeable, if anything they were just plain annoying. The kid that the shows storyline is centered around, Will, is especially loathable, my good god i hate that kid. After the introduction, everytime you see him on screen he acts like a whiny little ingrate. Sure he might have been infected by some interdimensional parasite, but does he have to be such an stupid **** I hate him. Also the "Elleven" character is ridiculous. Millie Brown might be one of the worst kid acters i have ever seen (i had to plain skip episode 7 of the 2. season), only topped by Danish Linnea Berthelsen from episode 7 - just skip it.

    I really hate this show and all the unworthy attention its getting, because this is a indicator of how many ****s exist out there, with no taste or critical sense whatsoever, some are even close friends of mine... Wake up, this show is terrible!    … Expand
  22. gromenawer
    Nov 6, 2017
    6
    This review contains spoilers, click expand to view. This season felt retarded.

    El11 should have die half season for severe blood lost. We get it; she bleed when using the powers, gee. Like, she is risking brain aneurysm every time she change channels on the TV, is like Homer with a gun.

    OST is good but stop switching songs so often. Is like "Look, 80s music is cool!, ehh?, ehhhhh? Here is another one! do you member 80s music? I member!!" Jesus every single song feel force down the throat of the audience. is no longer serving and complementing the series, is completely fighting the series for the foreground.

    Literally the whole El11 plot is worthless. You could had cast the actress for the 30 minutes of the last episode and would have been so much impressive. Mother plot is lame, the SJ-punk-W is stupid. A complete derail of minutes and resources. You could have given all of that time to Max and Max's brother. Show the father of Max is better parent but got screw in the divorce, show some dichotomy on the **** brother because is abuse by the father. Something.

    And the whole story is full of scify troopes, you can see everything coming from miles away. No surprises whatsoever: "you see that glass, is everythingproof! CRACK- well, not so much", the zerg hivemind, the grumpy coop, the crazy conspiracy guy, Demidogs are bulletproof except in the last 5 minutes.

    I hope that there is a season 3 with one episode. The demigorgon-ubergod destroying the entire stupid town.    … Expand
  23. avr50
    Oct 29, 2017
    8
    Even that season two is more satisfactory, I think season one is better. This doesn´t mean that this season is bad, because it is good. The performances are really good, the special effects are amazing, and the soundtrack is perfect. The addition of new characters is not unnecessary, it is appropriate to the story. There are moments of tension that really leave you cold when they´re over.Even that season two is more satisfactory, I think season one is better. This doesn´t mean that this season is bad, because it is good. The performances are really good, the special effects are amazing, and the soundtrack is perfect. The addition of new characters is not unnecessary, it is appropriate to the story. There are moments of tension that really leave you cold when they´re over. But, one of the issues of this season, is the bad use of “eleven” in the almost all of the episodes (mostly, episode 7) in the end, Stranger Things season two, is entertaining, funny, charming and addictive.… Expand
  24. daniprick
    Nov 7, 2017
    10
    best show ive ever watched! never been so hyped and thrilled for a tv show (exept for spongebob when i was 5 XD) please see this show for your selves...
  25. Quinby_Satchel
    Nov 8, 2017
    9
    This was overall way better then the first season. Delivers on giving favorite characters more depth and more to do. I also thought the finale felt like more a finale then season 1. It was much grander and more epic. I finished Season 1 liking this show. I finished Season 2 loving it.
  26. mohitmacho15
    Nov 12, 2017
    10
    better than season 1 in some areas but lacking in others, overall pros are far outweighs the cons. Nice character development with expansion of the story. Next season will decide that whether this show will remain in category of good shows or make a leap towards legendary territory.
  27. mydumbreviews
    Nov 24, 2017
    6
    I'll start by saying Stranger Things season 1 was one of my favorite shows ever.

    Stranger Things season 2 was just okay to me. I didn't feel any of the emotion I should have felt. It was good television overall, but it was a disappointment from the quality season 1 had. (spoilers) First of all, there's plotholes galore: The demidogs are immune to bullets whenever the plot needs    I'll start by saying Stranger Things season 1 was one of my favorite shows ever.

    Stranger Things season 2 was just okay to me. I didn't feel any of the emotion I should have felt. It was good television overall, but it was a disappointment from the quality season 1 had.

    (spoilers)

    First of all, there's plotholes galore: The demidogs are immune to bullets whenever the plot needs them to be. Like halfway through the series, Bob is killed by demidogs and Hopper tries to shoot them but the bullets just bounce off. At the end of the series, Hopper is able to shoot them successfully. Not to mention they get hurt by Steve wielding a baseball bat like halfway through the show. I guess all you needed was 100 baseball-bat Steves to take down the hivemind, huh?

    Speaking of hivemind, the show contradicts itself when it gives Dustin's pet demidog some individuality. It clearly disobeys the hivemind when it shows mercy to the party, which is a plothole and a cheap emotional moment. It didn't feel real to me.

    Eleven meets up with another girl with powers, and she was actually an interesting character, but they abandoned her quickly. I hope she comes back.

    There was nothing surprising about this season and everything just went exactly as expected. Me and my roommates were able to predict the plot perfectly as it unfolded, nothing like season 1 where we were left guessing.

    They tried to mirror season 1, which I thought was cool, but it just wasn't anywhere near as good. They repeated the same exact story instead of mirroring it in a meaningful way.

    The characters felt worse this season too, and the acting wasn't as good. I didn't feel any goosebumps and shivers the way the first season made me feel. I didn't cry when Will was ultimately saved. It wasn't emotional at all for me. When the season ended I was just like "that's it?"

    I hope they use this season to set up for something amazing in season 3, but somehow I think they will just produce something sub-par and the fanatic audience will eat it up. Same thing that happens to all great television (I'm looking at you, Game of Thrones + Walking Dead).    … Expand
  28. partyfavor
    Apr 25, 2018
    6
    I liked this show but not the same love I can give from the first season. The story started strong (I loved the other mutant's storyline) but it felt flat after a while and the pacing of the story became tiresome. The actors are still lovable, but the characters are somewhat not that like-able anymore. What really destroyed this for me is the last scene where it teases another "possible"I liked this show but not the same love I can give from the first season. The story started strong (I loved the other mutant's storyline) but it felt flat after a while and the pacing of the story became tiresome. The actors are still lovable, but the characters are somewhat not that like-able anymore. What really destroyed this for me is the last scene where it teases another "possible" sequel to this mess. It annoyed me that Netflix is just milking this franchise and it will be just a matter of time before it becomes a hot mess.… Expand
  29. BellaSwan1992
    Nov 15, 2017
    0
    Honestly, with everything coming out about Weinstein and Kevin Spacey and Corey Feldman, I was really unnerved by all the scenes in the last few episodes where Will is in just a hospital gown and they keep tying him to gurneys and chairs and beds. There are some real sickos behind this show who stick in all these unneeded shots of a prepubescent boy being bound hand and foot and strugglingHonestly, with everything coming out about Weinstein and Kevin Spacey and Corey Feldman, I was really unnerved by all the scenes in the last few episodes where Will is in just a hospital gown and they keep tying him to gurneys and chairs and beds. There are some real sickos behind this show who stick in all these unneeded shots of a prepubescent boy being bound hand and foot and struggling to escape. Really, really disgusting.

    I did a little research and found that the young red-headed actress gave an interview where she said she didn't want to kiss the black boy in the final episode (it wasn't in the script either), but the director Shawn Levy forced her to do it and then made her shoot multiple takes just because he saw it was uncomfortable for her (he even laughs about this like he thinks it's funny making young girls humiliate themselves, just like Weinstein). If you watch the scene you can see she looks really awkward and stiff when she does it, and the camera cuts away right away.

    I'm calling it now: there is something "off" about the people behind this show, and there is going to be a scandal sooner or later.    … Expand
  30. Sojum
    Oct 27, 2017
    10
    Popcorn TV at its finest. Season 2 manages to build a plot not unlike the sprawling nebulous monster behind everything in the upside-down. Never mind critical reviews comparing this to 80’s movies (I’m looking at you, EW). It’s NOT a movie, it’s a television show and setting the expectation that it will have as tight a story as a 90-120 minute big screen flick is setting a ridiculousPopcorn TV at its finest. Season 2 manages to build a plot not unlike the sprawling nebulous monster behind everything in the upside-down. Never mind critical reviews comparing this to 80’s movies (I’m looking at you, EW). It’s NOT a movie, it’s a television show and setting the expectation that it will have as tight a story as a 90-120 minute big screen flick is setting a ridiculous benchmark. Everyone gets a turn at bat this time, Steve and Max literally. And the story is satisfying on so many levels the competition pales in comparison. I wish I could say more, but the secret police would surely make me disappear if I dropped any spoilers. Just go watch and brace for your entire day to disappear like Mews.… Expand
  31. Deanomite
    Oct 29, 2017
    3
    It's ok if you need something on in the background while surfing internet or something. But there is no plot point until 1/2 through the season, no character progression no conflict or point or anything. That said, the music is excellent, the acting is very good for as thin as the characters are, the script is the weakness not direction or photography or editing. i am seeing this a lot lately.
  32. rodericrinehart
    Oct 29, 2017
    10
    This is what amazing TV looks like. Enthralled from beginning to end. They really expanded on the universe of Stranger Things and the new characters were great. Cannot wait for seasons 3 and 4!
  33. panslabyrinth
    Oct 30, 2017
    8
    I was not fond of the first couple of episodes into this season. However, it paid off strong, with exciting additions to the mythology it has so successfully drawn to our attention. I will say this: Stranger Things might be one of the greatest, most enjoyable shows ever aired, and to say that I simply cannot wait for the next chapter is an understatement of sorts.
  34. meenmeow
    Oct 30, 2017
    10
    Stranger Things is a blessing and such masterpiece. I pretty much love all the characters because they're different in their own ways and its absolutely awesome. Its finger lickin' good! So excited for season 3 and season 4. Pronto.
  35. ajgseries
    Oct 28, 2017
    10
    Generally, a tv series loses its essence with a second season, just like The Walking Dead or Heroes, but Stranger Things 2 is still terrifying, mind-blowing and intriguing. I'm speechless. This season conveys that nostalgia that we loved so much of the first season. The beginning of season two was quite curious and interesting. The visual effects are insane, very characteristic of StrangerGenerally, a tv series loses its essence with a second season, just like The Walking Dead or Heroes, but Stranger Things 2 is still terrifying, mind-blowing and intriguing. I'm speechless. This season conveys that nostalgia that we loved so much of the first season. The beginning of season two was quite curious and interesting. The visual effects are insane, very characteristic of Stranger Things. The series has an impeccable and splendid production. Thanks Duffer Brothers! 11 out of 10.… Expand
  36. hels228
    Oct 29, 2017
    10
    For Russian community
    Сериал очень годный, хорошо снятый, с хорошими актёрами и отличным сюжетом.
    Смотреть сериал - одно удовольствие!
  37. Eve84
    Oct 27, 2017
    3
    Stranger Things was a puzzle out of great ideas that came together and fitted perfectly. Season two is that same puzzle spread all over the table.

    While the original show's story revolved around a great mystery, the second season has absolutely no mystery at all. It comes out right from the start with whats going on "x is happening - how will the heroes prevent it?". The story and    Stranger Things was a puzzle out of great ideas that came together and fitted perfectly. Season two is that same puzzle spread all over the table.

    While the original show's story revolved around a great mystery, the second season has absolutely no mystery at all. It comes out right from the start with whats going on "x is happening - how will the heroes prevent it?". The story and characters, while fascinating and thrilling in the first season, just seem lukewarm, flat and often misplaced in the sequel. There's no motivation besides "someone's gotta stand there and say this line". You could remove/exchange most of the characters from scenes and it would chance nothing. Even the music, one of the first season's greatest assets, seems often forced and misplaced in how it uses its 80's tracks.
    While the original subverted common tropes(Steve for example), the second season doesn't even bother. See a douchebag? Its a douchebag; no second guesses.

    But the worst offender is the Eleven sideplot, which takes 7 episodes to complete and adds absolutely nothing and goes literally nowhere; ending with what can only be seen as a metaphor for "I'm going to be in the show now!" The star of the first season doesn't even need to be in the show up until that point. She's literally doing nothing, but irrelevant side adventures.

    The season is fascinating in how bland the ideas of expansion are. "How do we follow up on the success?" "Well, with a bigger and/or more monsters of course! That'll do!" is what the creators must have thought here.

    Its an uninspired sequel in the same vein other uninspired sequels: completely overloaded with what people loved about the original, because the creators couldn't think of anything but "add more".
    Nothing here really fits together.
    Where the first season is tightly knit, this one is just stuff thrown at a wall, to see what sticks. Not too much...

    With season two Stranger Things has become "Random Things." One can only guess how thick the 80's nostalgia must run through the people's veins these days, to hype an uninspired mess driven by nothing but references and 80's rock. Because that's the only two things season 2 is good at: references and music(even though the latter is misplaced a lot.)    … Expand
  38. mortarion15
    Oct 27, 2017
    10
    I had been waiting all year for season 2 and it did not disappoint at all. Season 2 might feel different, yet it retains the character-driven spark that gave Stranger Things its pedigree in the first place. Simply put, Stranger Things season 2 lives up to the hype.
  39. Andy92
    Oct 27, 2017
    9
    I've waited a year for this and it didn't disappoint. While some story lines were predictable that didn't make them any less thrilling and exciting the show definitely carries the same spark that made season 1 so amazing and i have no doubt that spark will carry on in later seasons
  40. scepticpurple
    Oct 29, 2017
    8
    Enjoyable as ever, but perhaps a little too hectic for it's own good - ST2 maintains the iron chemistry, wit and charm of the first season, but feels frantically overstuffed with new ideas and directions that, though well executed, compete disorderly for space. The result remains compelling and the conclusion feels genuine, but the journey to get there is often messy, and lacks theEnjoyable as ever, but perhaps a little too hectic for it's own good - ST2 maintains the iron chemistry, wit and charm of the first season, but feels frantically overstuffed with new ideas and directions that, though well executed, compete disorderly for space. The result remains compelling and the conclusion feels genuine, but the journey to get there is often messy, and lacks the enduring intrigue that the first season thrived off of.… Expand
  41. Kirkland
    Oct 30, 2017
    10
    Good..................................................................................................................................................
  42. JonSnowy
    Nov 28, 2017
    0
    Season 1 was surprisingly good, season 2 was a huge mess. Will is in danger AGAIN, his mom whines about him just like in season 1. More teenage love drama, and eleven is an annoying cry baby.
  43. LarryFisher
    Nov 29, 2017
    0
    Season 1 was great, season 2 was **** Gone are all the things that made this show interesting, it's now just a **** show. Worst tv show of the year by far and a complete joke.
  44. Weeeeee711
    Oct 28, 2017
    8
    This review contains spoilers, click expand to view. Bad stuff first:

    That 7th episode I read was polarizing..it wasn't that..it just wasn't required. You don't need a whole episode that tells you very little when there's only nine episodes to begin with. Jane ended up doing the right thing...which she would have done, anyways that was the main take-away. Great.

    Unless Kali is brought back in season 3 (which I hope she isn't) I didn't see the point of this episode or the beginning of the season when she mind tricks the cop (but just one of them, somehow).

    and if anyone ended up killing those kids..this review would have got a ZERO, btw.

    -the finale was a little too safe and the only major character I thought might die was Will.

    -I wasn't the biggest fan of Max. Seen her character about 20 times before.

    -Not enough of Mr. Clarke.

    That's about it as far as bad stuff!

    -I don't know about everyone else but Mike is kind of a son of a **** He just gets angry/defensive for no reason! Calm down, damn it.

    -Steve was more likable..was glad to see that!

    -Glad Nancy/Johnathan 'ended up together'. Hopefully it stays like that but I doubt it.

    -Hopper/Eleven did great, once again.

    -How does the smart one (Dustin) not know what presumptuous means?

    -Steve sure got over being hit in the head with a plate and 15 times in the face awful quick

    -Was anyone else waiting for the LOST sound effects of this versions smoke monster?!

    I thought it was good...but a little worse than last season.

    In the end....the whole season is about saving Will....kind of like the first season.

    I'll definitely watch it again, though!

    8/10    … Expand
  45. JLuis_001
    Oct 28, 2017
    7
    The hype was bigger than the quality delivered, certainly the expectations were huge and the truth is that being strict Stranger Things 2 was failure. Not a failure of being bad but a failure of proportions. This had to be huge and they settled with scratching the surface.

    Yes the new season is entertaining, although the first 3 episodes are just procedural, it gains traction later but    The hype was bigger than the quality delivered, certainly the expectations were huge and the truth is that being strict Stranger Things 2 was failure. Not a failure of being bad but a failure of proportions. This had to be huge and they settled with scratching the surface.

    Yes the new season is entertaining, although the first 3 episodes are just procedural, it gains traction later but although the threat is significant, the creators make a very serious mistake by separating all the people involved giving them different things to do when what it worked so well in the first season was the characters unity.

    The two new characters add nothing, seriously, a big misfire on that one.

    Even Eleven who was the most relevant character becomes secondary in this second part, it's true that they try to give her weight in argument towards the end but it does not work smoothly.

    I mean, it was good, it was entertaining, although it has very slow stretches in the first part, however it keeps you interested and the season finale is solid.

    ****I also had to mention, episode 7 was a huge filler.    … Expand
  46. WillByers
    Oct 29, 2017
    10
    Love this show!!!
    Season 2 was great, the new characters were interesting, the new monster was cool and the kids were amazing. Only thing I didn't like was episode 7, it just didn't work for me at all, it was terrible. But besides that the new season was fantastic. 11/10
  47. PeterDicklage
    Dec 18, 2017
    0
    Oh dear, oh dear, where to begin. As the summary suggests we loved the first season, yes, it had its flaws, mainly in the terrible script but we (the people I watched it with) forgave that in light of a gripping, well paced narrative.

    My biggest gripe about ST2 is the poor mechanics. By this I mean the story doesn't work. The continuation of how principle characters from ST1 behave in    Oh dear, oh dear, where to begin. As the summary suggests we loved the first season, yes, it had its flaws, mainly in the terrible script but we (the people I watched it with) forgave that in light of a gripping, well paced narrative.

    My biggest gripe about ST2 is the poor mechanics. By this I mean the story doesn't work. The continuation of how principle characters from ST1 behave in ST2 doesn't add up. When you acknowledge that that target audience for this is the 30-40 age bracket, meta-geeks and nostalgia-nuts who remember the films, music, games, culture of the 1980's, you must pay tribute to the intelligence that this group of people bring. OK, I'll say it, we're geeks and geeks like things to make sense.

    Dusting would not treat a baby demagorgon as a pet, nor would he hide it. Hopper behaves practically like a jealous lover, a Jozef Fritzl to Eleven. Eleven barely spoke in ST1. So many incongruities. The top secret HAL lab, that anyone can just roll up to and gain access. What annoys me the most is that the Duffer Brothers have created a story of total rubbish, they have trampled over the credibility of the characters they successfully developed in ST1. They have done with ST2 what Disney have done to Star Wars: repackaged the original with louder bangs and hoped that the audience doesn't call them out on a flagrant cashing in on a premise with no substance.

    Ultimately, I know I shouldn't care, but I do because I love ST1 and I hate ST2 for it's lazy storyline, it's awful script and really shoddy CGI.    … Expand
  48. TimW001
    Nov 20, 2017
    9
    Season two was amazing. Watch it. The characters, the story, the ending. All of it worth the investment of time. Definitely watch Season one first. But season two is great.
  49. lager96
    Nov 21, 2017
    9
    From the beginning, Stranger Things season 2 bring back everything I loved about season 1...and then builds upon it from there. The performances from the entire cast is stellar and even better than season one. While the show has always been about the characters, I feel that season 2 spends more time on the characters that we love and develops them even more. Milly Bobby Brown is stillFrom the beginning, Stranger Things season 2 bring back everything I loved about season 1...and then builds upon it from there. The performances from the entire cast is stellar and even better than season one. While the show has always been about the characters, I feel that season 2 spends more time on the characters that we love and develops them even more. Milly Bobby Brown is still fantastic as Eleven and gives the character even more depth this time around. David Harbour as Hopper is given more screen time in season 2 and I grew to love his character even more this season. I love how the Duffer Brothers take their time to build the characters. This work because of the masterful writing and the talented actors they have the pull it off. This season is just a great, if not better than the first, which is a great sign. Season three cannot come soon enough!… Expand
  50. alejandro970
    Dec 10, 2017
    9
    Preserves the force of previous season, with the same touch of nostalgia for the 80s, new character and an upcoming, wicked menace. The final chapters are heart-ponding with the accurate dose of suspense. Just wait of third season.
  51. thedaywalker
    Nov 11, 2017
    9
    I have to say, after the almost perfection of season 1, i didn't expect season 2 to be either better or even just as good.
    But i think they stepped up their game, giving characters more to do and the children remain as naive as before. The story is better told and the acting is a step up as well.
    I don't understand the Dacre Montgomery character's inclusion, because right now he was    I have to say, after the almost perfection of season 1, i didn't expect season 2 to be either better or even just as good.
    But i think they stepped up their game, giving characters more to do and the children remain as naive as before. The story is better told and the acting is a step up as well.
    I don't understand the Dacre Montgomery character's inclusion, because right now he was there to make Steve look like a good guy and to be a douche to MadMax.    … Expand
  52. dr0nzer
    Dec 26, 2017
    10
    didn't really where they'd take the story, the first season set a high standard in execution and this carries forward into this season, everything you expect from the first is in this second with the dial turned up, with the characters developed from the first season this season just allows the writers to build up on that, the story is well crafted, less of Rinoa Rhyer's over the topdidn't really where they'd take the story, the first season set a high standard in execution and this carries forward into this season, everything you expect from the first is in this second with the dial turned up, with the characters developed from the first season this season just allows the writers to build up on that, the story is well crafted, less of Rinoa Rhyer's over the top screaming which did amazing things for my ears and sanity, great story progression, although slow at the start it ended with a bang.… Expand
  53. MrNikitaTV
    Nov 14, 2017
    10
    Очень странные дела 2-пример отличного сиквела. В сериале осталось вся крутость первого сезона, которая была умножена в два раза. В этом сезоне понравилось более живые диалоги и взаимодействие персонажей. Но в этом сезоне есть маленькие косячки, но они не портят сериал целиком, поэтому снижать не буду. Это все те же Очень странные дела!Очень странные дела 2-пример отличного сиквела. В сериале осталось вся крутость первого сезона, которая была умножена в два раза. В этом сезоне понравилось более живые диалоги и взаимодействие персонажей. Но в этом сезоне есть маленькие косячки, но они не портят сериал целиком, поэтому снижать не буду. Это все те же Очень странные дела!
  54. KeenWatcher
    Nov 24, 2017
    10
    Stays true to the roots of the original season but goes that step further and gives you insight into the link with the upside down, showing there is much more to it...
  55. mzumerle
    Nov 1, 2017
    10
    What a good show! It's big and better, I think there's some little problems, but doesn't interfere on the final results! Can't wait to see Season 3! Unfortunately only in 2019.....
  56. AgathaAlexandra
    Nov 10, 2017
    10
    A segunda temporada é incrivel, não perdeu a magia eu amei. Os personagens continuam os mesmo, cativantes e muito bem desenvolvidos. Os novos personagens também são incriveis.
  57. Mrduff01
    Nov 12, 2017
    10
    For me the best show on Netflix. Millie Bobby Brown(Eleven) and Noah Schnapp(Will Byers) are the Stars of this Show, so young and so talented! it will give you all the 80s Nostalgia that you need.
  58. MallRat15
    Nov 27, 2017
    9
    The second best season of the series so far. This season had many good episodes with many good moments but i cant forgive them for the atrocity that was episode 7. What a waste of time nothing good came out of the episode and just wasted an hour of peoples lives. Other than that however most episodes were exceptional and kept me locked in the entire time. All performances were great andThe second best season of the series so far. This season had many good episodes with many good moments but i cant forgive them for the atrocity that was episode 7. What a waste of time nothing good came out of the episode and just wasted an hour of peoples lives. Other than that however most episodes were exceptional and kept me locked in the entire time. All performances were great and the chemistry of all were really executed greatly. Great music and sound gave the show that eerie felling that it was trying to achieve. Looking forward for whats to come next.… Expand
  59. gtwist
    Nov 26, 2017
    8
    The second season of this show wasn't quite as good, but still very entertaining. My only flaws with the show was the character of Max, and episode 7. However, episode 8 and 9 were my favorites of the whole season. I'd give season 2 an 8/10.
  60. MovieMantz
    Nov 22, 2017
    10
    I just wanted to like season 2 as much as i liked season 1. Season 1 was so good and it started stronger than most tv shows so the bar was set pretty high. I must say I enjoyed season 2 as I'd wish for. Except for one episode that could have been shorter, I wouldn't change a thing.
  61. Flavatown
    Nov 25, 2017
    10
    Awesome show. Great characters, although i felt like billy had absolutely no purpose in the show other than to be a jerk to everyone. I had fun with this season and delving deeper into the stories of our beloved characters. Also, somebody needs to get that kid Noah Shnapp (Will Byers) an Emmy ASAP! His performance this season was spot on! I don't care what anybody else says about the show,Awesome show. Great characters, although i felt like billy had absolutely no purpose in the show other than to be a jerk to everyone. I had fun with this season and delving deeper into the stories of our beloved characters. Also, somebody needs to get that kid Noah Shnapp (Will Byers) an Emmy ASAP! His performance this season was spot on! I don't care what anybody else says about the show, just get this boy an emmy! He made this season!… Expand
  62. wiiy71
    Dec 23, 2017
    8
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  63. Ascospore
    Mar 18, 2018
    7
    Let's be honest, Season 2 was a step down from the first in quality of story, but it's still essential viewing. At least it hasn't fully shat the bed like Jessica Jones Season 2.
  64. fredweasley
    Oct 27, 2017
    10
    Darlin' you got to let me know
    Should I stay or should I go?
    If you say that you are mine
    I'll be here 'til the end of time
    So you got to let me know
    Should I stay or should I go?

    It's always tease tease tease
    You're happy when I'm on my knees
    One day is fine and next is black
    So if you want me off your back
    Well come on an' let me know
    Should I Stay or should I go?
  65. temptershell
    Oct 28, 2017
    10
    The second season showed something incredible. Not only did he raise the bar to a great height, it also made a huge mess in the world of the show. The threat and expansion of the series universe has never been so dramatic in any series. Maximum rating from me and I look forward for next season.
  66. MovieNerd_EP
    Oct 28, 2017
    10
    Stranger Things...but more 10/10, 'nuff said

    ...........................................(gotta make it 150 characters)...........................

    .
  67. MadMax09392
    Oct 28, 2017
    9
    I am am constantly amazed with what the Duffer Bros and the whole team behind this show pull of ! Not much in Stranger Things is original in any shape or form yet somehow the show always feels fresh and leaves me longing for more adventures with Eleven Will Dustin and the rest of the party. This season is darker and this time around the stakes are much higher but other than that this isI am am constantly amazed with what the Duffer Bros and the whole team behind this show pull of ! Not much in Stranger Things is original in any shape or form yet somehow the show always feels fresh and leaves me longing for more adventures with Eleven Will Dustin and the rest of the party. This season is darker and this time around the stakes are much higher but other than that this is the Stranger Things we all know and love so do yourself a favor and binge watch this now ! To anyone new to Stranger Things Imagine ET ,Aliens ,The Goonies, The Thing, IT and many other 80's-90's Science Fiction/Horror films books mixed together that was infused of so many pop culture references from the same time that they become hard to keep track of at times well THAT is pretty much Stranger Things in a Nutshell !… Expand
  68. Ankhthiel
    Oct 29, 2017
    6
    This show in season two was pretty good in most aspects. Was weaker than season one but that was to be expected with the surprise out of the box. The biggest let down was the liberal preaching that was way too prominent. Not interested in conservative bashing or liberal diversity carols in my entertainment. Sermon is for Sundays not for sci-fi shows 6/10.
  69. OpticalPrime
    Oct 29, 2017
    9
    Warning, Spoiler Review!

    Stranger Things was one of my favorite shows in a long time so to say I was hyped for season 2 is an understatement. Now that it has arrived, how did I feel about it? I would say this season actually ended up exceeding my expectations, surprisingly. Episode 1 was absolutely packed with surprises. From the opening scene with 008 to the ending scene where we    Warning, Spoiler Review!

    Stranger Things was one of my favorite shows in a long time so to say I was hyped for season 2 is an understatement. Now that it has arrived, how did I feel about it?

    I would say this season actually ended up exceeding my expectations, surprisingly. Episode 1 was absolutely packed with surprises. From the opening scene with 008 to the ending scene where we learn that Eleven has been with Hopper since the end of season 1, that blew me away. One of the main questions from the end of Season 1 was just what happened to Eleven, when would we see her again, would she be trapped in the Nether, etc. Seeing that she broke out and found Hopper and they had been forming a parent/child relationship was absolutely fantastic. The acting dynamic between the 2 within the first half of the season is some of the best TV of the year.

    The first half of season 2 is all about the characters, and that I love. You have Mike who is struggling due to the loss of Eleven, desperate to have her back again. 350+ days constantly on the walkie trying to contact her in the Nether. You have Eleven who is struggling learning how to actually be a kid with a parent. You have Hopper struggling to be a father figure, stern but loving but with sometimes taking that sternness too far which angers Eleven. Those fights between the 2 are amazing. You have Dustin being classic Dustin throughout.

    The real star of the first half is no doubt Will though. His performance is just amazing throughout the entire show but especially in the first half. His progression from a tortured and bullied kid whos been through hell to being possessed by the Mind Flayer and watching the slow progression of the Flayer taking over his personality and actions is masterfully done.

    The only portion of the story I struggled with was when Eleven, in the 2nd half, runs away to find Mama and learns of 008 and goes out to find her. Those scenes of them 2 together are very well done but just didnt like the jarring breaks from Hawkins to the city. Felt like she was away from the story a bit too long in that sequence, but man does it deliver when she returns to everyone near the end! When she walks through the door and stands in front of everyone, it was downright electric and emotional. Amazing.

    I have no qualms with any of the new characters to be honest. Billy was a perfect nemesis for this type of story. A cocky and overconfident teen who feels better than everyone else but also has a wicked mean streak. You get the sense throughout that he could go too far at any time either with Max or with anyone that crosses him and that theory rings true near the end. Maxine is also a fine additional to the cast and she mixes well with all the cast members she comes into contact with. Her sudden addition into the group does feel sudden, which is perhaps the point as the boys, minus will, are more than happy to have her around all the time as they are hoping to land her as a girlfriend. So you can actually feel Wills frustration at that particular section of the story as he feels she is being forced into the group and isnt truly a part of it all.

    And then you have Nancy, Steve, Joyce and all the older cast who are brilliant throughout. especially nancy early with her struggles in keeping what happened to Barb quiet. You can see that struggle and feel it and it is very well acted. As in season 1 the only character I really had issues with was Jonathan. That dude needs to grow a pair and it is shown once again in season 2 as he continually misses signals from Nancy and doesnt make any moves until its absolutely the last moment. His interactions with Will in later episodes is enthralling though and there are particular moments that are actually warm and heart wrenching.

    And what a finale! Fantastic. Far better than season 1 and I got a bit emotional to be honest. Overal though, a fantastic season full of fantastic acting from everyone just like Season 1 and full of surprises and suspense. This season was actually far more suspenseful than season 1 and it was the easiest binge watch I've had since Breaking Bad. Fantastic show. I really have no idea what some of these critic reviews are talking about tbh.    … Expand
  70. schamp007
    Oct 28, 2017
    9
    A great follow up to the first season. It gets really bigger in terms of both story and the stakes. Some episodes may seem a bit slow and one story may seem a bit forced, but it's not that much of a problem. I really liked the song choices in the movie, great new additions to my play-list. All the episodes are connected and it's really a 9-hour long movie. Really good show to binge watchA great follow up to the first season. It gets really bigger in terms of both story and the stakes. Some episodes may seem a bit slow and one story may seem a bit forced, but it's not that much of a problem. I really liked the song choices in the movie, great new additions to my play-list. All the episodes are connected and it's really a 9-hour long movie. Really good show to binge watch over a weekend.… Expand
  71. batman500
    Oct 28, 2017
    8
    I just spend all last night watching all the episode of season 2, I love it just left off when season 1, I have to watch the last episode of season 1, to make sure that I did not miss anything, but I love season two.
  72. fcdennis
    Oct 27, 2017
    10
    It's betteer than season one. The rhythm of narration is very good, in a crescendo until the episode 7 that is the worse of the season, although it is necessary to create the hook of the 3ª season. The characters have been well developed and the plot is pretty cool. A lot of easter eggs.
  73. Kenmei
    Nov 2, 2017
    9
    While not as appealing to the general public as the first season was, Stranger Things tried to do a few new things while moving on with the old. And, while I don't agree with ever decision here, it was still as good as it could have been considering the story. And, to be clear, the story does start out slow and it doesn't answer alot of the questions that the first season asked, nor someWhile not as appealing to the general public as the first season was, Stranger Things tried to do a few new things while moving on with the old. And, while I don't agree with ever decision here, it was still as good as it could have been considering the story. And, to be clear, the story does start out slow and it doesn't answer alot of the questions that the first season asked, nor some of the ones that the second season asked, but it did do a few things that alot of fans were clamoring for and helped along the general story of the show to continue on and try to succeed.
    The addition of Paul Raiser and Sean Austin for the series really helped out in a few ways, some more then others, but its the returning case, more specifically the side characters from the first season, that stand out. Eleven gets her own story away from the main group here, and that's kinda a bummer, but it works out for the ending and I don't think I'd change it. It's the side characters, Dustin and Lucas, as well as the new characters, Maxine and her brother Billy, that really did well in the development here. The problem is the pacing of the show. With a 9 episode season, the fact that it didn't really pick up till about episode 6 is a problem. The characters and the actors did everything they could to help with that but the it's the pacing that is the biggest problem here. With how the season ended, (no spoilers), it doesn't feel like a ton actually happened here. It's a shame that the season ended the way it did, even if it was actually a pretty good ending, it still had a ton they needed to get to that they didn't. I would have loved to have seen a few more episodes here, since it was actually a little shorter then expected. However, a season 3 is all but promised going to happen here. So it's all the more important that stuff continue. I'd still recommend it to people who enjoyed the first season but they really could have done more with the setup they were given here.    … Expand
  74. mrmonster
    Nov 3, 2017
    9
    Not as good as season 1...that being said, it is still fantastic. As always, the kids are great, and the show perfectly balances multiple story arcs. If you liked season 1, you will like season 2.
  75. Sitheguy78
    Nov 3, 2017
    10
    Really great series. Even better than Season 1.

    More 80's vibe Sci-fi. What else could you want?

    This tv show is (ET+IT)*(Goornies+Super8)^Fringe
  76. dhaab
    Nov 14, 2017
    9
    Excellent follow up season. The added characters made sense and helped the plot lines in the 2nd season. The 80's soundtrack was inspiring as well. I look forward to season 3!
  77. EmperorofDubbo
    Nov 2, 2017
    9
    Loved Season 2 as much as Season 1. Wondered where'd they go after Season 1 but I really enjoyed the story progression & the growth of all the cast. Well done...
  78. RyanGimeson
    Oct 30, 2017
    9
    This review contains spoilers, click expand to view. This show is a modern-day classic! Love Hopper, Eleven, Mike, Dustin, everyone really! Steve really grew on me this time around I liked his mentorship with Dustin.

    My one problem? This season is REALLY depressing.

    Mike and Eleven were such a joy together in season 1, and they kept the show light. They basically don't see each other or interact again till the very last episode. Hopper and Eleven were awesome together, and Harbour is still AMAZING as Jim Hopper, but past the first few episodes, there really is nothing optimistic about their relationship. It all ends well between them, however.

    Unlike Barb, Bob was a fully fleshed out character, and just a great guy. I get why he had to die, but did it have to be so brutal. Eleven "dying" last season was enough to convince me it wasn't a kids show, they didn't have to go Walking Dead on Bob and straight up just rip him to shreds at a pivotal moment.

    Basically every character cries at some point this season, too.

    Besides that, this is just as amazing as the first.

    9/10    … Expand
  79. bjwils
    Nov 15, 2017
    8
    Stranger Things Season 2, somehow manages to create the same atmosphere and love I had for the show in its first season. With great performances by Millie Bobby Brown and David Harbour, who had surprisingly good story arcs and chemistry on screen, looking forward to more from David Harbour in his soon to be released Hellboy reboot. The only negatives for me was a slow building pace at theStranger Things Season 2, somehow manages to create the same atmosphere and love I had for the show in its first season. With great performances by Millie Bobby Brown and David Harbour, who had surprisingly good story arcs and chemistry on screen, looking forward to more from David Harbour in his soon to be released Hellboy reboot. The only negatives for me was a slow building pace at the near start of the season, despite it having great pay offs, it left me bored and wanting to see more of Eleven and Dustin. The character of Max seemed forced into the mix rather than natural, but that may be due to my loving the chemistry of the three young leads. This season was an episode longer than the last one and in my opinion it really didn't need to be, Episode 7 the dreaded episode that everyone talks about I didn't mind, but didn't really have to be an episode and I believe was given too much background and was simply there to tease further seasons, which I suppose has to be done.

    Overall Steve Harrington could serve me food as my new mother, because Stranger Things Season 2 left me begging for more.    … Expand
  80. MasterRiley
    Oct 28, 2017
    10
    Stranger Things: Season 2 continues the amazing story of the first season but with higher stakes and an incredible amount of intensity throughout. It takes place a year after the first, so naturally the characters (especially the kids) have grown up a bit. The entire cast once again brings great performances and humanity to their characters that make them feel like real people. All of theStranger Things: Season 2 continues the amazing story of the first season but with higher stakes and an incredible amount of intensity throughout. It takes place a year after the first, so naturally the characters (especially the kids) have grown up a bit. The entire cast once again brings great performances and humanity to their characters that make them feel like real people. All of the new characters are also great. And thats probably Stranger Things greatest success, every single character is interesting and well developed. As Season 2 progresses, the unravelling mystery of what happened to Will Byers and the upside down becomes extremely interesting. There are a lot of shocking and satisfying moments. Speaking of satisfying, there is justice for Barb. However it might not be the only justice needed. But most important of all, the heart of the show, is the emotion between the characters. A lot of the relationships between central characters are further developed in this season, which adds for some really touching moments. Especially when it comes to Mike and El. And finally, the ending, it could not have been more perfect.… Expand
  81. MarsCorialanus
    Oct 29, 2017
    10
    I had read some negative reviews on here, and so I'm I was worried. But after three episodes I'm totally hooked again. Great tone, great writing, and my favourites Hopper and Eleven are just as loveable as last season. They've also drawn just as heavily on great scifi and great horror to create a really impressive and spooky horror series. Instead of a demogorgon, we have heptapod-esqueI had read some negative reviews on here, and so I'm I was worried. But after three episodes I'm totally hooked again. Great tone, great writing, and my favourites Hopper and Eleven are just as loveable as last season. They've also drawn just as heavily on great scifi and great horror to create a really impressive and spooky horror series. Instead of a demogorgon, we have heptapod-esque war of the worlds upside down creatures. Although I haven't finished this season, I can say without a doubt that it is as compelling as before.… Expand
  82. cassina4
    Oct 28, 2017
    8
    Stranger Things volvió ahora siendo terrorífico y con momentos mas emotivos. Me gustó la actuación de Noah (Will) creo que lo ha hecho bastante bien. Esta temporada fue mas de mi agrado.
  83. Thug-Negus
    Nov 6, 2017
    10
    I like this series for several reasons, but the one that moves me the most is the attention to detail. I was the same age as the teens who play in the film, and many good memories from 33 years ago have resurfaced. Starting with the credits, typical of the SF series of the 80s (the typography of the letters etc.... )We also find a mix of all that was made that time, for example E.T theI like this series for several reasons, but the one that moves me the most is the attention to detail. I was the same age as the teens who play in the film, and many good memories from 33 years ago have resurfaced. Starting with the credits, typical of the SF series of the 80s (the typography of the letters etc.... )We also find a mix of all that was made that time, for example E.T the extra terrestrial. I really love this t-v show.… Expand
  84. TheQuietGamer
    Nov 3, 2017
    10
    After becoming such a smash hit with it's first season, the second season of Stranger Things had big shoes to fill. Suffice to say it more than delivers and gives viewers plenty of reasons to return. Everything you loved about season 1 is still here. Only now the scale is much larger to the point where it's practically overflowing with riches.

    I love how it sort of follows the same    After becoming such a smash hit with it's first season, the second season of Stranger Things had big shoes to fill. Suffice to say it more than delivers and gives viewers plenty of reasons to return. Everything you loved about season 1 is still here. Only now the scale is much larger to the point where it's practically overflowing with riches.

    I love how it sort of follows the same beats as last season. I found myself noticing how a lot scenes were basically doing the same things we saw last time, only now just bigger and more complex. This sense of déjà vu is able to be appreciated as it feels like the people behind the show are saying "hey, remember this part you loved in the first season? Well here it is cranked up to eleven!" Pun intended. It's sort of the show's way of saying that it knows how to make old ideas fresh again and really expresses the Stranger Things creators inventiveness and skill. Of course there are also those moments foreshadowing and outright brilliant tiny scenes that sort of hint at the larger things at play. The near-constant stream of 80's references are still fun.

    The emotion and characters are once again spot on. The cast is perfect and their characters are just as lovable as ever. the newcomers fit right in. Seeing them grow and face new issues is just as involving and engrossing as it was the first time around. The new menace is mysterious and adds new elements of horror to the mix. It's an incredibly tense season and will keep you guessing. The action is notably improved.

    If you loved season 1 then you'll love this as well. The creator's upped their game and delivered another stellar season. It won't win anyone over who is already on the fence or just flat out didn't like it, but it delivers everything fans could want and surprises us with a whole lot extra.    … Expand
  85. ronaldohero
    Nov 11, 2017
    10
    This is the SHOW of the years!! Amazing!
    The casting is extremely talented and just pure magic. The story is Perfect and the music fits perfectly to the setting. I recommend watching this tv show
  86. Voodoo123
    Nov 20, 2017
    10
    +Exceptional cast, old and new, deliver memorable performances
    +Noah Schnapp
    +Memorable soundtrack / use of period licensed music
    +Respects the viewers time to tell a good story
    +References to Aliens, Temple of doom and other movie sequels
    -Already knowing what to expect from the show
  87. muldjord
    Nov 1, 2017
    7
    This review contains spoilers, click expand to view. Great season, but it felt rushed compared to season 1. Much of the mystery had gone which caused the show to focus more on character development. Which was great for the most part.

    But a lot of the dialogue was just silly and stupid. And Mad Max's brother was waaaay too unhinged. He just felt like the devil, and I could not find a reason for him to be that mean. So, I get it, his father is abusive, and there's some anger. But he was just mean beyond comprehension, all. the. time. How the hell does it make sense to take it out on your younger stepsister like that? I mean, to some degree maybe. But it was just waaaaay over the line. Didn't believe it, didn't feel it. It just made no sense to me.
    And Eleven's reaction to Max was also just waaaay over the top. And the guy's being against her from the group also felt too unbalanced. I'm not sure if it was the acting or the script. It just didn't work well in my opinion.
    And the complete betrayal of his friends for Dart? Just like that!? Nope, didn't work for me. Looking back I don't even understand the reason for it other than to drag out the show and maybe trying to create tension in the group. But it didn't work well.

    I think it basically comes down to only having a decent script. All the right stuff is there, it just needed a few more rewrites, which I guess they didn't have time to do.

    Bottom line. Season 1 was amazing! Season 2 was good. But it's been a long time since I've cringed so much over weird dialogue in a TV show. If they make a season 3, I hope they focus on this.    … Expand
  88. sVc
    Nov 9, 2017
    9
    This review contains spoilers, click expand to view. I was worried that this show was going to be a Second Season disaster, quite honestly. Netflix has given the green light to a couple other shows that had an astonishing Season One simply because of their huge success/word of mouth. Some of those shows should have stayed as stand alone seasons and not pushed the envelope. I was afraid this might be one of them. I was wrong. Very wrong. The only reason I don't give this a perfect 10 is because you can't possibly duplicate the rush of nostalgia and freshness (at the same time) that Season One had. It brought back a certain type of storytelling that had been missing for a while and at the same time kept great focus and still felt entirely new. And fun, and scary and heartfelt. There are very few shows that I've actually bing-watched on Netlix or Hulu. Instead, I like to take my time and feel that anticipation build over a few days before coming back to the next episode. And for episode 1 and 2 of this season, I was able to do that. But by episode 3, I could resist no more and watched the remaining 7 episodes in one night (6 & 8 being the best, BTW). What surprised me the most was how much care they put into it. They crafted another season that was an extension of the first, but with such detail to the plot . Season Two could have very easily been a rush job to simply bank on the success of the first. But the Duffer Bros. obviously enjoy what they're doing and want to leave behind a very entertaining, thought out show that will stand the test of time. So many homages to other movies it's like name- that-movie, which I think is fun. Bringing in Sean Astin was a great idea/edition for a character: (spoiler alert: they even fooled me. I thought he was an agent for the government to watch over the family). And I have to give props to Noah Schnapp (who plays Will Byers). To be so young and pull off that acting ability, (especially in episode 8 when he - another spoiler alert- has to pull off being possessed) amazes me. But all the actors are great and I didn't write about Season One when it came out so I'll say it now: I'm glad to see Winona Ryder back and getting some of the spotlight. Anyway, I really didn't go through what this show is about, but I'm pretty sure anyone reading these reviews already knows what it's about, right? I'll sum up by saying I am looking forward to the next installment. I have a feeling that the Duffer Bros. aren't going to disappoint.… Expand
  89. Popcornpete
    Oct 29, 2017
    10
    This show is the reason I have Netflix and it's worth every penny.
    Superior storytelling, engaging characters and great soundtrack make this
    feel good sc-fi at its best. Thank you Netflix for this gem.
  90. QQVAMBB
    Oct 30, 2017
    10
    The second season is amazing. It's dark and exiting. It shows how the characters changed after the events of the first season, how they experience it. New characters also did not disappoint. This was an excellent continuation of the first season.
  91. carloshenrik25
    Nov 5, 2017
    10
    This review contains spoilers, click expand to view. A série ótima, é um ótimo entretenimento para a família. contém história bem interessante, divertida um pouco engraçada e ao mesmo tempo sobrenatural, uma série que facilmente indicaria para os amigos.… Expand
  92. DavidWasHere
    Nov 2, 2017
    9
    This is what a great season does. Takes what works from the first season and builds off of it without being forced nor indulgent. The acting is still strong, the atmosphere is as euphoric as ever, the new characters are a great edition and do not feel out of place. It feels like an expansion! While some plot elements are basically similar to the first season, that is more of a nitpick andThis is what a great season does. Takes what works from the first season and builds off of it without being forced nor indulgent. The acting is still strong, the atmosphere is as euphoric as ever, the new characters are a great edition and do not feel out of place. It feels like an expansion! While some plot elements are basically similar to the first season, that is more of a nitpick and does not distract from the main story. My only complaint is that the CGI effects for the monsters are pretty bad! I don't care if it's a small budget for a TV show. Ex-Machina cost about $15 million and the effects in that movie is gorgeous! Good CGI is not reliant on the budget! But other than that great second season and I cannot wait for season 3!… Expand
  93. furkan36411
    Nov 13, 2017
    10
    The best series until they do better. Players are great. I liked new charecters. 11's story could have been better maybe. She joined the main story very late.
  94. noirfx
    Oct 29, 2017
    2
    Waste of my time, just like the season 1. Almost every action characters make are stupid, the plot is garbage, acting is lame and the whole thing feels cheap and slow. The only good thing about this show is the mood and style of the 80s and the soundtrack. Everything else fails miserably.
  95. bfoore90
    Nov 12, 2017
    9
    Its about as good if not a tad bit better than season one which says alot because I loved season one. Its well-paced, action packed and full of nostalgic 80s references and Easter eggs. The chemistry between the kids and the adults is astounding and it ended with me wanting more out of season 3.
  96. Justinavery7074
    Oct 2, 2018
    7
    Though not as strong as the first season it still is pretty freaking good. It takes a little time for this one to get started but it is good.
  97. drlowdon
    Aug 24, 2018
    8
    A year after the first season finale (which saw Eleven sacrifice herself to save her friends) the consequences of what happened are still being felt by everyone involved, Will in particular seeming to have a hard time coming to terms with what happened to him.

    In all honesty this second season doesn’t stray to far from the template laid down by the first in terms of plot. It also takes    A year after the first season finale (which saw Eleven sacrifice herself to save her friends) the consequences of what happened are still being felt by everyone involved, Will in particular seeming to have a hard time coming to terms with what happened to him.

    In all honesty this second season doesn’t stray to far from the template laid down by the first in terms of plot. It also takes a few episodes to really get going but, once things kick into gear, it arguably begins to surpass what the first season achieved and ends with the two best episodes the show has ever produced. You’d have to have a heart of stone to not care for this cast of characters by the end!

    With a third, and possibly even a fourth, season on the way it remains to be seen if the Duffer brothers can find a way to evolve the show and keep it entertaining but so far so good.    … Expand
  98. Andremax
    Jul 16, 2018
    8
    Series keeps great. Following where 1st season has been stopped and unrolling from first resolved conflict which based previous season. Some plot twist are founded here, as some character's personality changing. Humor, nostalgia and thriller still remains in a good form.
  99. TheFilmFanatic
    Apr 20, 2018
    9
    This season of Stranger Things is a fun, engaging sci-fi thriller that plays less on the sci-fi gimmicks of last season and focuses more on the interpersonal relationships and growth of its characters. While some more sci-fi heavy characters lose screen time, the overall tone, atmosphere and themes help in propelling this season forward.
  100. DiogoOliveira
    Nov 24, 2017
    3
    Não esperava muita coisa, mas tive que assistir para poder opina, e digo que a serie esta cansada da própria existência, episódio 1 fraco, previsível, desfragmentado, ruim, mal editado, quando chegamos no episódio 7 o desastre esta pronto e feito, piores episódio, a serie esta querendo fugi do cliché, mas ela própria redefiniu o conceito de cliché bom, mas nessa estraga tudo, joga tudo noNão esperava muita coisa, mas tive que assistir para poder opina, e digo que a serie esta cansada da própria existência, episódio 1 fraco, previsível, desfragmentado, ruim, mal editado, quando chegamos no episódio 7 o desastre esta pronto e feito, piores episódio, a serie esta querendo fugi do cliché, mas ela própria redefiniu o conceito de cliché bom, mas nessa estraga tudo, joga tudo no ralo, com cenas desconcertantes que foge da primeira temporada que estava clean para corre por Exorcista, fracassando também na inclusão de dois personagens que não acrescenta em nada, o masculino uma copia de um personagem já existente na primeira temporada e o segundo, que e um personagem feminino não se sabe o que faz ali, seria para um par romântico forçado? descubra você mesmo. final fraco puxando gancho para mais uma temporada, fracassando literalmente com o trabalho mediano mas aceitável da primeira temporada.… Expand
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Awards & Rankings

53
#53 Best TV Season of 2017
5
#5 Most Discussed TV Season of 2017
23
#23 Most Shared TV Season of 2017

Critic Reviews

All reviews »
Metascore
78

Generally favorable reviews - based on 33 Critic Reviews

Critic score distribution:
  1. Positive: 32 out of 33
  2. Mixed: 1 out of 33
  3. Negative: 0 out of 33
  1. The New Yorker
    Reviewed by: Troy Patterson
    Dec 15, 2017
    80
    As with last year’s introductory season, a Spielbergian sense of wonder and a John Hughes-like knack for underage anthropology invigorate the show’s approach to scary science-fiction.
    Read full review
  2. Slant Magazine
    Reviewed by: Nathan Frontiero
    Nov 6, 2017
    75
    Stranger Things 2 ultimately feels less like a cash in on the success of the first season and more like its narrative complement, allowing the creators to fully explore the ramifications of the world they created.
    Read full review
  3. We Got This Covered
    Reviewed by: Lauren Humphries-Brooks
    Oct 30, 2017
    80
    All in all, Stranger Things season 2 is ultimately more of the same, but still a very worthy sequel, which is good news for those of us (like me) who only hoped for the Duffer Brothers to manage to carry through the success of the original run with an affecting, and believable, continuation of the story.
    Read full review
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